The “TierraCast Hammertone Stitch-in Link” is designed for use as a stitched-in end for seed-bead work, but I think it works equally well as a chandelier-style connector. In this project, I combined swags of cable jewelry chains to make long chandelier earrings. They are simple and yet dramatic. In celebration of the start of Autumn, I made antiqued copper earrings, but don’t feel limited–supplies are available in four different plated finishes: silver, gold, antiqued brass, and antiqued copper. So you might want to make more than one pair.
Continue Reading…I am not a fantastic metal stamper, and sadly, practice doesn’t always make perfect. I am the queen of stamped four-letter words, and even those are crooked. But actually, what I need is a process that camouflages my imperfections as rustic charm and offers the opportunity for do-overs. If this sounds too good to be true, it’s not–read on to learn how in this step-by-step tutorial.
Continue Reading…Earring Upgrade for Sensitive Ears
June 24, 2021If you have metal allergies, chances are your jewelry box has one or more pairs of abandoned earrings due to the ear wires causing an allergic reaction. Fortunately, this is easily remedied simply by changing out the ear wires–a task you can do yourself. Read on to learn about the supplies you will want, the tools you will need, and the instructions to turn those old abandoned earrings into your new favorites.
Continue Reading…How to Make a Large-Hole Bead and Multi-Strand Leather Choker Necklace
November 15, 2020There is beauty in simplicity. A few beads, some leather cord, and finishing findings are all that is needed to make this choker necklace. Though not elaborate, it is still striking and functional. And if you are not really a jewelry minimalist, you can alter this design by stringing your favorite focal pendant in the center.
Continue Reading…If you are looking for cute, then Swarovski’s line of “Cutie Cutes” pendant charms are just what you need. Lovable and whimsical, Cutie Cutes are a playful family of character charms. The assortment features pieces inspired by Japan’s Kawaii style, such as Bubbly Bunny, Kitty Kat, Carly Carrot, Perky Penguin, and Uni Unicorn. Available with a durable top loop, Cutie Cutes are quick and simple to attach to almost anything including Rings & Things beadable bookmarks.
Continue Reading…Making your own jewelry components can add a unique look to your handmade jewelry. It can be a lot of work making jewelry parts from “scratch”, but customizing existing components is fun and easy. Here is an earring tutorial that features instructions for using a metal dapping set to turn flower-shaped filigree into large, lacy bead caps. Read on to learn more.
Continue Reading…Jewelry Making with Swarovski Dome Round Stone
February 20, 2020Swarovski’s Spring/Summer 2021 launch TIME TO SHINE is about “embracing the transformative power of time” and is “brought to life in brilliant cuts and color”. The new launch features Shape 1400 Dome Round Stone. The dramatic new shape has 90 sparkling facets and a foiled back, so it is full of sparkle and shine; plus the shape “references both past and future”.
Continue Reading…The 15-Minute Earring Tutorial
May 3, 2019Do you have 15 extra minutes? Then you have time to make a new pair of earrings! Just combine your favorite decorative connector links with Swarovski crystal pendants to create these fast and easy earrings.
Continue Reading…Jewelry-Making Tutorial: Homemade Positional Beads
April 9, 2019Have you ever used SmartBeads with “BPS”? If you have, you probably love them as much as we do. SmartBeads with “Bead Positioning System” are positional beads that are silicone lined. The lining allows the beads to grip various stringing materials and keep adjacent stringing components in place.
Continue Reading…Creating Leather Jewelry Using a Portable Rolling Mill
August 4, 2017It is easy and inspiring to cut leather strips into into jewelry basics and ornamental elements! Continue Reading…